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Certificate III in Process Plant Operations (PMA30120)

Certifications

Build practical process operations skills for production, utilities and processing environments - safely, consistently and to procedure.

Course Overview


This qualification supports people working in process plant operations across industries such as resources, energy, manufacturing and utilities. You’ll develop core skills in safety, communication and basic operations, with electives selected to match the plant area and equipment you work with.

Key Details

  • Operate process plant equipment safely and in accordance with procedures
  • Monitor plant conditions, interpret schematics and respond to process variations
  • Contribute to quality, environmental and safety outcomes on shift
  • Use permits, isolation principles and basic maintenance practices appropriately
  • Build technical depth through electives aligned to your plant area (e.g., separation, utilities, hydraulics, water treatment)

Units of Competency / Course Content


This qualification requires 16 electives. The list below is a practical generalist stream; electives can be tailored to the plant, product and site requirements.

Core units

  • PMAOPS201 – Operate fluid flow equipment
  • PMAOPS204 – Select and use utilities and services
  • PMAOPS205 – Operate heat exchangers
  • PMAOPS221 – Operate and monitor prime movers
  • PMAOPS222 – Operate and monitor pumping systems and equipment
  • PMAOPS223 – Operate and monitor valve systems
  • PMAOPS246 – Operate separation equipment
  • PMAOPS280 – Interpret process plant schematics
  • PMAOPS310 – Operate and troubleshoot distillation system
  • PMAOPS343 – Transfer bulk fluids into/out of storage facility
  • PMAOPS349 – Operate and troubleshoot hydraulic systems
  • PMAOPS352 – Operate and troubleshoot instrument and plant air systems
  • PMAOPS356 – Operate and troubleshoot water treatment systems
  • MSMSUP240 – Undertake minor maintenance
  • MSMPER201 – Monitor and control work permits
  • PMAOPS332 – Generate electrical power

Elective units

This qualification requires 4 electives. The list below reflects a common generalist selection; electives can be tailored to plant type, product and site requirements

Course Details

Course Information

Be at least 18 years of age (recommended for workplace-based programs)
Basic literacy and numeracy to complete workplace documentation
Suitable PPE for practical sessions (where applicable)

Workplace or simulated practical tasks
Knowledge checks and short-answer questions
Projects/portfolios (as required)
Trainer observations and third-party reports (where applicable)

On successful completion, participants will be issued the PMA30120 Certificate III in Process Plant Operations by Health Security Education (RTO #40907) and a valid USI is required prior to certification issue.

Course fees include training, assessment and (where applicable) issuance of certification for participants who successfully meet competency requirements.
Course fees may not include personal PPE, travel, onsite delivery travel costs, replacement certificates, or additional resources unless stated.

Funding and subsidies: Where applicable, funding or subsidies may be available for eligible participants.
Payment terms: Payment is required prior to course commencement unless otherwise arranged.
Refunds and withdrawals: Refunds are managed in accordance with Health Security Education’s Fees and Refunds Policy. Written notice is required to withdraw.

Trainer support is available throughout the course. Language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) support and wellbeing support are available on request. Health Security Education provides a safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment.
Participants must follow trainer instructions and use equipment safely. Reasonable adjustment is available where appropriate.
USI: A valid Unique Student Identifier (USI) is required prior to the issuance of nationally recognised certification.
Policies and processes (including Complaints & Appeals) are available via the Student Handbook.

Credit Transfer: Available for equivalent completed units where a valid and current Statement of Attainment is provided.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): May be available for learners who can provide evidence of current competence.
Pathways: This unit may support entry into further training pathways in health, community services, emergency response, workplace safety, or related outcomes, depending on learner goals and packaging rules.